As engineers work to fix vandalized power towers, the Army and Air Force provide crucial protection, aiming to restore power amid a nationwide blackout.
The Nigerian government has announced that the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) is spearheading joint security operations with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Nigerian Army to ensure the safety of engineers repairing the damaged 330kV Shiroro-Kaduna transmission lines.
Previously, it was reported that the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) identified security concerns as a significant barrier to repairing the vandalized towers. These damages have led to extensive power outages throughout parts of Northern Nigeria.
The destruction of two towers along the Shiroro-Kaduna lines has interrupted electricity supply in regions within Kano and Kaduna states. TCN noted that its Shiroro Regional Office was the first to report the incident.
At a public hearing organized by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Engineer Nafisatu Ali, who serves as the Executive Director of the Independent System Operator at TCN, cautioned that fully resolving the issue would require some time.
She also mentioned that even though the Ugwuaji-Apir line provides some relief, it can only transmit 350 MW of the required 750 MW capacity because of voltage instability in Kano.
Sunday Dare, who previously served as the Minister of Youth and Sports and is now the Special Adviser on Public Communications and Orientation to President Bola Tinubu, confirmed that security operations led by the NSA will guarantee the safety of TCN engineers working in the dense forest areas near Shiroro.
Dare posted an update on his X account (previously Twitter), saying: “The NSA’s office is overseeing the combined efforts of NAF – Kaduna HQ, and the Army in monitoring the 330kV Shiroro-Kaduna Lines 1 & 2 concerning the damaged towers. This also involves providing security for TCN personnel operating in Shiroro’s dense forest area.”
He additionally disclosed that the repair teams have pinpointed the damaged parts of the transmission lines. With security measures established, their goal is to restore Line 2 promptly before proceeding to address Line 1.
Dare mentioned, “In the meantime, TCN is close to providing a temporary power supply of 400 MW to the impacted northern regions via the Ugwuaji-Apir line.”
This coordinated response underscores the government’s efforts to restore electricity while prioritizing the safety of personnel operating in high-risk areas.
Peoplesmind
